Rahul Dravid buys Dublin Guardians: Meet all 6 owners of Europe’s new T20 league ETPL; Abhishek Bachchan, Rohan Lund to Faf Du Plessis - In pics

The European T20 Premier League (ETPL) officially completed its six-team ownership structure during a major launch event in Dublin ahead of the competition’s 2026 debut season. The biggest headline of the evening came with Indian legend Rahul Dravid being unveiled as owner of the Dublin Guardians franchise. Featuring global cricket icons, international investors, and ICC backing, ETPL is positioning itself as Europe’s biggest cricket revolution.

Rahul Dravid - Dublin Franchise

Rahul Dravid’s entry into franchise ownership instantly became the headline moment of the ETPL launch. The former India head coach said the league’s grassroots vision and focus on nurturing European cricket talent convinced him to invest in the Dublin franchise. Dravid emphasized that helping young cricketers grow has always been central to his cricketing philosophy, making ETPL a natural fit for his long-term vision.

Glenn Maxwell and Rohan Lund - Belfast Franchise

Belfast secured one of the biggest T20 superstars in world cricket as co-owner. Glenn Maxwell’s involvement immediately adds entertainment value and international visibility to the league. Known for his aggressive batting and larger-than-life personality, Maxwell’s presence could become a huge attraction for overseas players considering ETPL participation.

The ETPL is not just another T20 league it represents Europe’s first ICC-sanctioned multi-country franchise cricket tournament. Backed by Cricket Ireland, Cricket Scotland, and Cricket Netherlands, the competition aims to create a pathway for emerging European cricketers to share dressing rooms with global stars like Glenn Maxwell, Faf du Plessis, Heinrich Klaasen, and Mitchell Marsh.

With Rahul Dravid, Chris Gayle, Steve Waugh, Glenn Maxwell, and Jonty Rhodes now attached to franchises, ETPL has already secured the kind of star power most new leagues dream about. Europe’s cricket experiment suddenly feels very real.

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